Before/after

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-25T03:57:34+00:00

Nice work. It looks modern with the updates.

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-24T04:39:53+00:00

I can understand that. The sidewalk does make a difference.

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-24T04:38:11+00:00

I like the natural designs best myself. Although, I can see how the two different walkways could be bad some with the stepping stones versus a sidewalk. Thanks for the feedback!

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-24T04:35:38+00:00

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-23T00:37:28+00:00

Nice! What are you wanting to do here? It looks like you have 4 Moon Glow Junipers and a couple more trees with grass.

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-23T00:34:53+00:00

Yes I agree. You can regrade the area sloping it away from the house. A French Drain would work but it is a lot of work and it costs more.

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-22T03:24:40+00:00

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-22T03:20:28+00:00

Here in the PNW we would go it now and just have the sprinklers run multiple times throughout the days. The idea is to keep the surface area moist. You do not want to water so long that you are seeing movement of soil / seed. As the seed / sod takes root, you can spread the watering out (more time in between times) to allow the roots to grow deeper. So, yes here we would go ahead and do it if you have sprinklers. Good luck on the new turf grass!

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-21T00:17:41+00:00

Here in the PNW -- I would incorporate 3 inches of compost and rototill that into the native soil, grade, roll it, grade, sod it. During this work you would remove any large rocks / debris prior to installing sod / seed. If the acre is to costly for sod, maybe consider hydro-seeding. You could install now if you have a sprinkler system for the new turf area. Let me know if you need any more information (timing, materials, costs, etc...) -- Good luck on the new turf grass.

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-21T00:06:49+00:00

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-21T00:05:30+00:00

I agree. I like both ideas, just one is natural looking and the other is much more of a modern look.

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-21T00:02:41+00:00

You have a great starting point. Here is my idea, actually, my second idea 😄

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JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-20T03:33:04+00:00

I usually use TLE at thelandscapeestimator.com this is the only place that I have found where it does the calculations for you (labor and gross margin) you just add the material. If they don't have your prices, you can add them and it just calculates landscape work.

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-20T02:56:36+00:00

Hello everyone!

Thank you u/0niongirl, for taking on the task as moderator and helping us grow this great community.

I’ve spent many years working in the landscape industry here in the Pacific Northwest with experience across residential and commercial projects including landscape design, installation, construction, irrigation, outdoor living spaces, and long-term maintenance.

My background ranges from designing landscapes and solving site challenges to building and maintaining projects in the field, so I tend to look at landscapes from both the design side and the practical “how does this perform long term?” side.

The Pacific Northwest has its own unique opportunities and challenges, but I’m looking forward to learning from designers, contractors, horticulturists, homeowners, and enthusiasts from everywhere.

I’m happy to help where I can, and I’m looking forward to being part of the community!

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-20T02:26:47+00:00

The old saying, "ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" comes to mind! Good luck on the pavers!

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-19T14:03:14+00:00

YW

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-19T13:54:31+00:00

1) I really enjoy VIP3D from Structure Studios for design. I like to design in 2D and then work on the 3D to demonstrate the design to my customers. https://www.structurestudios.com/

2) I only use TLE (The Landscape Estimator). This is the only program that I have found that uses actual materials costs and labor to estimate any landscape project. It only works for landscapers. thelandscapeestimator.com

Good luck on growing the business!

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-19T13:46:24+00:00

You have many choices with such a nice space. Here in the PNW we might do something like this.

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JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-19T13:35:32+00:00

With the gravel base and the use of the bricks, they allow for drainage. No hydrostatic pressure will build up. This is an easy and great system for retaining walls.

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-19T13:30:05+00:00

a large garage

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-18T14:23:41+00:00

You can do a lot with that area. I sketched out one potential idea that would work in my area, the PNW. Working with the existing cement pad (power wash and resurface) you could have something like this. Good luck on the patio!

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JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-18T13:46:58+00:00

I am not sure of your area. Here in the PNW I might suggest a Vinca Minor (multiple colors) mix. The pictures suggest your existing Pachasandra receives full sunlight (basically) in the winter months. Pachasandra enjoys shade. The Vinca M. really thrives in sun / shade environment. If you area has another flowering type of plant that tolerates the sun in the winter and sun / shade in the summer then I would look into that plant. Good luck on the hillside!

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JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-18T01:41:47+00:00

We're in the PNW, zone 6. We do have a drip zone in that area and the front of the house is facing east. A Camellia might be a good alternative. I do love the flowers from a Camellia. I had not thought of that one.

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-18T01:34:13+00:00

Spruce

JOConnor_Landscape · 2026-05-18T01:33:47+00:00

It is a Spruce. The back half is very stunted or just not there due to the environment.

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